Senate Standing Committee Addresses Work Visa Issues for Pakistanis in the UAE
On Wednesday, a session of the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development brought to light critical updates regarding work visas for Pakistani citizens traveling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In a key statement, Committee Chairman Senator Zeeshan Khanzada clarified that there are currently “no restrictions on work visas,” emphasizing a need for clarity amid conflicting reports and rising concerns.
The Growing Concerns: Begging and Screening
Amidst reports of a rising number of Pakistanis engaging in begging in various Middle Eastern countries, authorities have ramped up their efforts to monitor and regulate travel to these destinations. A senior official from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) shared insights on the matter, revealing that immigration staff at airports are proactively offloading passengers from flights to the UAE. This move is part of a broader crackdown aimed at curbing the disturbing trend of begging, particularly among those on visit visas.
In December, the Senate panel addressed the need for enhanced vetting procedures, emphasizing that all Pakistani travelers to the UAE would require police verification. This directive also extends to travel agents, highlighting the government’s proactive stance in managing labor migration responsibly.
Visa Insights from Experts
Despite the official stance indicating no restrictions, Overseas Employment Promoter (OEP) Aisam Baig shed light on an unsettling trend: a significant decline in the issuance of work visas to Pakistanis traveling to the UAE. He claimed that, unofficially, there has been a 50% reduction in the number of workers securing employment in the Gulf nation. Baig attributed the UAE government’s concerns over begging, which he noted mostly involves individuals on visit visas rather than work visas.
Understanding the Employment Landscape
Secretary Arshad Mahmood weighed in on the discussion, noting that around 90% of the immigration sector comprises private OEPs. His comments served to underscore the diverse employment opportunities available to Pakistanis in countries beyond just the UAE. He expressed optimism that, despite recent declines, the flow of Pakistani workers abroad would continue robustly.
In an informative presentation, Bureau of Immigration Director General Muhammad Tayyab provided statistics highlighting the growing trend of skilled labor migration to the UAE. He reported that 64% of the labor force being sent overseas comprises skilled workers, with 46% currently working in the construction sector and 38% in service roles. A small percentage, around 20%, are utilizing OEP services, while an additional 8% of highly skilled professionals, such as doctors, are securing direct visas.
Visa Verification: A Necessary Measure
The discussion soon turned to the critical topic of police verification for work visas. Senator Shahadat Awan raised pertinent questions regarding the universality of this verification process. Secretary Mahmood addressed these inquiries, explaining that every country has its own criteria for validating applicants, and that the Higher Education Commission plays a role in credential verification.
Tayyab reinforced that the Bureau of Immigration is focused solely on work visas, clarifying that visit visas do not necessitate the same scrutiny. This differentiation emphasizes the importance of ensuring that only qualified individuals are sent abroad for work, to maintain Pakistan’s reputation in the international labor market.
OEP Baig elaborated on the police verification process, affirming that prospective workers must secure a police character certificate prior to employment. He praised this requirement as a positive step forward, aiming to improve the quality of individuals representing Pakistan abroad.
The Road Ahead for Pakistani Labor Migration
The committee’s discussions revealed a complex landscape concerning labor migration to the UAE. Mahmood insisted that as long as demand remains high, more Pakistanis would continue to make the journey. His remarks prompted recommendations from the committee urging the Foreign Ministry to scrutinize any existing visit visa restrictions, signaling a proactive approach to ensure better employment opportunities.
With myriad factors influencing the migration of Pakistani workers, it’s evident that both the government and private sectors must navigate this evolving dynamic with care and foresight. The primary focus remains on fostering a responsible and sustainable labor migration system that not only meets local demands but also enhances the prospects for Pakistani workers abroad.
